Home fans booed Shelvey, who was banned for five games after being found to have used racially-aggravated language towards Romain Saiss during September's league meeting between the two sides at St James's Park.

Shelvey had strongly denied the FA charge at a hearing in December.

Wolves supporters also chanted against Benitez during the return match.

Shelvey kept his discipline in the game, which was decided by a first-half strike from Aleksandar Mitrovic.

"It was not an easy game for him, but I think he did well," said United manager Benitez, whose side lead the table by one point.

"The team was working hard and he showed composure and a cool mind to play and keep the ball. He did a good job for the team.

"He is a professional. He knows you have to concentrate on the game."

Asked if Shelvey had expected a hostile reception, Benitez said: "Yes. We knew but one thing the FA has to maybe consider is what the fans were saying (chanting)."